Estado y recursos de las trabajadoras sexuales: una perspectiva india

Abstract

Abstract The occurrence of prostitution, even after considering all of its connotations, has remained an exploitative concept and is generally related to a patriarchal capitalist system. The article elucidates modern social contract theories, such as the Marxist feminist theory, which portrays sex workers as victims, subjugated by society at large. On the contrary, academic scholars like Ronald Weiser advocate the decriminalization/legalization of prostitution, and emphasize the fact that it can be positively regulated. The article examines the two basic entry channels to sex-work as a profession in India: first; a workforce generated by the market for manual labour/hard chores, and second, direct entry into the industry in lieu of a lucrative avenue to generate income. The Indian political approach has been to try to achieve a carefully balanced mix between the views that sex work is immoral and that sex trade is exploitative. Prostitution per se is not illegal in India, although specific activities are penalized, such as soliciting, economically supporting an adult, etc. Furthermore, prostitutes suffer from atrocities like forceful detention in rescue homes, mandatory medical examinations and lack of access to higher judiciary. The article discusses the role of the State and the laws governing and regulating sex workers. This paper seeks to provide recommendations to alleviate their appalling conditions with certain short and long-term initiatives. This article uses an interdisciplinary methodology, based on secondary data.